Campaign Updates

This week Linda and I got a chance to work with the Clayton Rotary Club to provide food and gifts for families that might do without this Christmas.  We've been doing it for years, but we never get over all the emotions that come over us; We're sad for families that are struggling, we're happy when we can help brighten the holiday and we feel tremendously blessed to be in a community that takes care and watches out for each other.

As we gather our friends and families together for Christmas, Linda and I hope we all remember those who are away from their families protecting us and keeping us safe.

  Merry Christmas to you and yours, from the Moore family.

Over the last few months, Linda and I have talked to people from Hobbs to Farmington and from Clayton to Silver City.  We've met a lot of people and are hearing a lot about what's wrong with NM state government and how a new administration might tackle these challenges.

Last week, we had a chance to spend some time with agriculture producers from all over New Mexico.  One issue that came up over and over was how often state government gets in the way.  Too often, state government stymies economic growth, creates unnecessary roadblocks to a good education for our kids and makes rules and regulations that lack common sense.

One example would be the proposed emissions cap regulations that the environmental improvement board is considering.  Unlike the federal cap and trade debate that's going on in Washington, these regulations would cap, then reduce emissions without any way for offsets or trade.  It would only affect businesses that operate in New Mexico, making them uncompetitive and probably putting them out of business ... losing jobs and economic activity in our state.  On the other hand, other companies would be free to build power plants all around our borders in surrounding states.  The jobs and money would go there, but any emissions would still be with us, since air currents don't pay attention to state boundaries.  Plus our utility rates would be much higher.  I'm not a fan of federal cap and trade either, but the proposed NM cap only would be a disaster.  All of this would be done by a small board making rules on their own, not through debate, discussion and consensus in the state legislature.

We may not always agree about the size of government, but we should all be for a government that works for all of New Mexico ... simply, efficiently and as inexpensively as possible.

Linda and I own a grocery store and, as you can imagine, we've been really busy this week, helping customers find the right turkey and all the special ingredients that make a holiday meal perfect. 

I love Thanksgiving, not just because of the business or the food (all of which helps), but because it's a holiday that's all about gratitude. It's easy this year, when the economy is challenging and the political wars are going at full speed, to focus on the negative and forget how truly blessed we all are.

So this week, Linda and I will focus on all the good things in our life ... our family, our many friends all over New Mexico, our great military men and women around the world, our health, a warm place to live and good food.  We hope you enjoy this special holiday and that you, too, are grateful for your many blessings. 

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families from the Moore's!

Many thanks to Heath Haussamen for his poll on the Lt. Governor's race ...

Moore wins non-scientific poll on GOP lt. guv primary

By Heath Haussamen • 9/20/09, 5:55 pm

The majority of those who voted in last week’s non-scientific poll on this site said Brian Moore would defeat J.R. Damron in a Republican primary race between the two for lieutenant governor.

Of 120 votes cast, 93, or 78 percent, went to Moore, while 27, or 23 percent, went to Damron.

As Heath says, the poll is not a scientific poll, but hopefully it indicates a fairly high level of support among his readers.

Saturday was a whirlwind trip (635 miles) from Clayton to Clovis for a Republican breakfast, then off to Santa Fe for their Tea party, then back home so I could work Sunday morning (payroll!)  It was a great trip, rained off and on all day, but was sunny and mild in Santa Fe for the Tea party.

Overall, I was very impressed with people who understood the issues and were passionate about being involved in the political process.  There were people lined up to sign petitions, register to vote, pick up constitutions, buttons and signs.  The organizers told me it was very non-partisan group with volunteers from both parties and independents.  What we all have in common, I think, is broad concern about where our state and country are headed.  Are we spending too many tax dollars?  Are we getting good value for the money?  What about education?  What can we do to keep more kids in school and make sure they can read and write?  What about health care? Are there some simple, less expensive things we can try first?  All good questions ... some of the answers may be complex, but it will be good for us to have the discussion.

Clayton, NM -- Clayton businessman Brian Moore announced today he has entered the race for the Republican nomination for Lieutenant Governor. "As a small businessman myself, I understand how challenging it is right now for people and small businesses all over the state. After serving rural New Mexico for eight years in the New Mexico Legislature, I know how important it is to get out and listen to people who really understand the issues. I want to hear ideas on how New Mexico can be better and our how our state government can be more efficient and responsive."

Moore served most of his eight years in the legislature on the Appropriations and Finance committees. He was known and respected throughout the Legislature for his principled stands on the issues, along with his ability to work with both Democrats and Republicans on critical issues like education, budgets and ethics reform.

"When I went to Santa Fe to work for my legislative district, I knew the only way to be effective was to build relations with people from both parties. If we truly want to change the face of politics in New Mexico, working together is the only way to get it done, and I believe I can help make that happen."

Moore is joined in the campaign by Linda, his wife of 17 years. Together they own Clayton Ranch Market, a small grocery store in Clayton, New Mexico. The Moore's have a combined family of five children, Jarrett, Brandi, Pam, Kellee and Mike, along with 7 grandchildren.

The campaign website is www.brianmoorenm.com

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